There was, there is, there will be
The weather was surprisingly sunny. Early in the morning, Jack and Mel drove to Eureka. Mel decided to visit Joey and more importantly, Mark. She wanted to say goodbye to him... Jack offered to travel with her, because he didn't want her to go alone. She fell asleep on his shoulder when they boarded the plane. It wasn't soft at all, but it didn't bother her. She loved to cuddle her love. Like a furry teddy bear. Jack was reading a newspaper. Cosmopolitan... Because that was the only one in Mel's bag.
+ We'll land soon. - said the flight attendant. Please fasten your belts!
She woke up. Jack kissed the top of Mel's head.
+ What are you reading? - asked.
+ Cosmopolitan. - said with seriousness.
+ Oh, I'm sorry. I could have brought you a men magazine. - she regretted.
+ As a matter of fact… it's really interesting. There's so much to learn about women and others... Here's an example of this:
" What is the difference between sin and offense?...
+ I don't know… - said the woman and her mouth drooped.
It is a sin to start making love, but it is an offense to stop it."
+ Jeeez! There will be consequences... – and she snorted.
+ Why? You are allowed to read such erotic things, and I'm not? So that's how you get the information. Women's Bible... - and began to grimace. Another one: how to stimulate prostate gland... I don't know what this article is about, but I can tell you, this is from Sodom and Gomorrah…
And kept flipping the magazine.
AT THE AIRPORT
+ Congestion everywhere. The holidays are coming. – she said…
+ It's only the beginning of November. – he replied uncomprehendingly.
He took the woman's hand and took the suitcase from her. They packed together. It was romantic. The first time. Jack packed plaid shirts, jeans and a darker outfit too. Mel didn't care about fashion anymore. She chose comfort... Besides... She's already found the best guy who loves her with and without clothes as well.
They hailed a cab. Jack opened the door for the woman, then the driver put the suitcase in the trunk.
+ Crescent Dr, Beverly Hills – said Mel.
+ Nice area! – replied the driver.
+ A little too crowded for me. - and she giggled.
Huge houses. Houses? Palaces. Pastel colors. Bushes. Clean streets, hedges, parks. Pools. Luxury. Dens luxury from top to bottom. Jack was looking around, but he wasn't very attracted to this life. Noisy, a lot of people. Virgin River was his home ... Peace and quiet. Except the por camp...
+ Arrived. – said the driver.
Jack paid the driver and helped to take out the package.
+ Wow! – he sighed. I didn't even know your sister is the Queen of England… - snorted.
+ She's not. But her husband ... her future ex-husband... I think, Bill is related to them. Very distant relatives. Blue blood... and Manager. Anyway, he's a good guy... but it's not working...
+ Press the bell. – said Mel.
The man looked at her strangely.
+ Why?
+ Just press.
And then he heard...
"Pretty woman walking down the street
Pretty woman, the kind I'd like to meet
Pretty woman, I don't believe you
You're not the truth
No one could look as good as you
Mercy! "
…
The man frowned.
+ Oh, my God, where am I?
+ Beverly Hills… she loves this song…
+ But so much? – he laughed.
The gate opened. Joey rushed toward them with arms wide open.
+ Hello Hello strangers! She hugged his sister and then Jack. Hey handsome! Welcome to Beverly Hills! - and she stroked his face and smiled at him.
It was a grateful smile. She saw her sister and that was because of Jack. Happiness.
+ Come inside!
+ Go! – said Mel and showed the way with her head.
Huge windows. Bright walls. Lots of plants. Clean style. Lights. Lights everywhere. Modern fireplace, built-in wardrobes. Large staircase and pool. Lots of paintings. Abstract. Statues. They were weird… Solid color sofas. Toys? Maybe in the children's room. Totally Beverly Hills…. It was like a dream. Just not for Jack. He preferred to see themselves in the cabin in front of the stone fireplace.
+ You have a beautiful home! – said and smiled.
+ Oh, thank you. I'm an interior designer.
+ Mel never mentioned that! Then you must have wanted to escape from the bar. – and laughed.
+ I didn't understand what my sister, the Los Angeles born woman, was looking for in a place like that. Then I realized she wasn't going there because of the place. Much more because of the owner. – and winked at Jack.
Jack stood behind Mel, pulled her closer and kissed her neck.
+ Children? – asked Mel.
+ Upstairs. I'll call them.
Three little girls ran down the stairs. Each was blonde, brown-eyed, beautiful. Jack was a big fan of kids.
+ You like kids? – asked Joey.
+ Sure! Nephews and nieces. I have four sisters… And they like to divide… - and they started to laugh.
Mel hugged them all and introduced her love.
+ Guys! This is my "boyfriend", Jack. – said with childish style.
Jack understood. Children's speech. He smiled.
+ Nice to meet you! – and introduced himself.
+ Do you love Aunty Mel as much as mom loves dad? You know Mom always yelling yes, yes, yes. I think dad asks her if she loves him...
Jack and Mel started to laugh. Joey was ashamed.
+ Uhhmmm. Yes! I love Aunty Mel as much as your mom loves your dad. She is my true love.
She felt happiness. A real man with kids. She prayed to be parents one day. The rest of the day was spent with the kids and Joey. They visited a nearby restaurant for dinner.
AT NIGHT
The guest room was spacious like other rooms. Mixture of blue and white. Tiny white flowers, small size pictures. Soft carpet, velvet armchairs. White parquet, barn door. Jack's attention was drawn by the biggest picture. Stars. A copy of this hung in each room. Two constellations. Taurus and Pisces.
+ Can I ask you something? – asked Jack.
+ Sure!
+ What about these pictures? The stars?
+ When we were kids, our mother taught us to draw our own constellations... She said that if we have to leave life, our remembrance will live on in stars. You just need to look at them, and you will feel your loved ones close to your heart. These are the constellations of our parents...
+Why don't you have a piece in the cabin?
+ I had a bigger one in the past... but Mark's mother accidentally broke it... after that... you know... I have one in my wallet... Dad was Taurus; Mom was Pisces… and I'm Taurus too…. By the way. Have we ever mentioned our birthdays?
+ No! – and he chuckled… and by the way…. I am Pisces too…
Snorted then said:
+ Well, we already know why you have a character like that... – turned to and grinned at her. However, tell you the truth... this is the reason I have fall in love with you! And your beauty of course... But most of all, your temperamental behavior captivated me…
+ Hmm… Pisces! Fishing… Fishing all the time. Doesn't it sound familiar? - giggled. And about your birth…day… What's that day?
Jack suddenly pulled her to himself. Grabbed her neat bottom. And let her know he was in a passionate mood.
+ You go first! - said politely with a big, flirty smile on his handsome face… Then he pinched her left, rosy cheek.
+ 2nd of May. – replied.
+ Ooohh! You are a spring girl too…
+ Who else? – asked jealously.
+ Me. – he smiled… hesitated… I mean! I am a boy!... No! Not! I am a true man! – and he posed like Superman… then he said: 18th of March.
He put his lips on her lips. Covered them with slow, loving actions.
+ We can't do it here! - stopped him.
+ Why? - he was interested. And deep in her soul, he was afraid the name "Mark" would come up again.
But it didn't happen that way.
+ Because it's so weird to do it in my sisters 'bed.
And he looked at that fluffy bed.
+ All right... Then we do it on the floor ... how about that?
She hesitated then curved her mouth up:
+ Yes, with pleasure. And winked at the man slowly, softly.
TOMORROW
+ Any plan for today? – Joey asked Mel.
+ Uhmmm. I'd like to go to the cemetery… - breathed out.
+ Alone?
Mel didn't answer.
+ I think you could go together.
+ I can't ask for that. That would be weird.
Joey didn't say anything.
AT THE GUEST ROOM
+ What are you doing?
+ Getting dressed. – simply said.
+ Into dark?
Jack sighed. And turned back.
+ I'd like to go with you if you let me.
Mel was touched so much. The man she wanted to live her life with and whom she loved with all her heart was willing to accompany her to her ex-husband's grave. What else can this man give her? Can this be boosted at all?...
+ I would be grateful for it. – and looked in his eyes deeply.
The man squatted down in front of the woman. He took Mel's hand.
+ You don't have to do this all by yourself. You're not alone! I'll be by your side in everything if you want and let me. – kissed her hand and went back for the clothes.
+ Hey Jack!
And he turned back again?
+ I love you more than my life…
He was frozen. Tears welled in his eyes…
+ I feel the same! – kissed her strong and ran his fingers through her hair… Mel! Don't do this anymore to me… When you confess your love, I always cry. Just like a girl. And it's your fault. Total naff… - and smiled at her again.
AT THE CEMETERY
Jack hated cemeteries. It recalled every memory in him. It was torture for him. But now was different. Her love needed him...
Mel walked slowly toward the grave. Put down a pillow and knelt down on it…
+ Hey! I'm here again... - she sighed. Everything was so confused a couple of months ago... I was lost and I still have guilt. I think it will never go away... I must live with it.
I came today, to say a kind of goodbye. When you died, I died too. I felt this for a long time. I didn't want to live... I have lost many things. So I escaped from my former life and my feelings. It did not work... I didn't know how my life would change... I met Jacket. I've already told you about him a lot... I feel like I was reborn, thanks to him... Thought I would never love somebody as I loved you. Believed I offend your memory by falling in love again. Then I realized that you always wanted me to be happy... - long silence... I found a man I love. You know what that means. I wanted to tell you I am grateful for everything! I will never forget you. Never! You were one of the loves of my life and it will stay with me forever... I hope you smile up there like you did it down here... and that you wear that black t-shirt... Be who you were. - she put her hands onto the grave and said goodbye.
Jack helped her get up then hugged Mel.
+ Are you alright? – asked politely.
She nodded…
Without foresight Jack headed the grave. He read the name: Mark Monroe. Monroe….
+ Hi Mark! I'm Jack ... I just want to tell you... I know how much you loved Melt. I also know you worried about her. I would do the same. I do. But you need to know I feel what you felt. I feel the love you did. I will be by her side in everything and support this woman. She is the love of my life... and he touched the grave.
The woman's face floated in tears. It was so emotional.
Jack hugged her.
+ Thank you… for this…
Mel looked back and said goodbye.
A WEEK LATER
Back to Virgin River.
Jack woke up next to his woman. He loved such mornings. Moved closer to her. Inhaled the scent of her hair and hugged Mel from behind...
Like a huge baby. Soft skin, delicate scent, strange-funny sounds... Mel used to hum during her sleep when she was happy. This has happened often lately. This morning she chose an old song... It was familiar to the man. Romantic... "Up Where We Belong"...
Strange noise coming from under the blanket… It was a… farty…
Mel immediately woke up ... ashamed and hid under the blanket.
+ I wouldn't hide there in your place right now. - Jack laughed. Loudly...
+ I can't look you in the eye…. never again…
+ Oh! Come on… Come out!
And she did…
+ It's a human thing. I think you know this best. There is nothing that will discourage me from you. I love you even more than I did 5 minutes ago ... And he kissed the woman… And she kissed him back…
And they were slacking for half an hour.
Mel was lying on Jack's belly. Stroking it. Then he looked into his eyes.
+ I think I'm going to marry you today… - said with her simplicity.
+ Wait! What? – he giggled.
+ I want to do it. – her eyes were sparkling.
+ Just like this? Two of us? – begun to stroke her head.
+ Yeah! Just no frills.
+ I like your idea… but we have wedding witnesses…
+ I… I've been thinking about this for a while. Virgin River ... a new beginning, a new life, a new love. Lots of good friends. You know, the first night I didn't think I'd ever say that ... but I'd like Doc. – and her became happy.
+ It's a fine choice! – smiled at her…
+ You?
+ I would love to ask Hope. I think I've completely forgiven her by now... and I think I'll be able to let her know... with this action.
+ This is the right decision... She loves you as a son. You are very lucky.!
Mel became melancholic.
+ Are you okay?
+ Sure... I just got emotional.
+ I know. - said and kissed her forehead.
+ You know what! I guess she has another adopted child...
+ Oh no!... the two kids are in love with each other... yucks.
+ Oh you are right… But you know what I meant…
Jack got up and went to the bathroom.
+ We have few things to do... - and smiled at the woman.
He looked back at her from the door...
+ Anyway... did you know that in your dreams you often make sounds like this morning? - and he started giggling.
AT THE BAR
Jack was in the office. He just called.
+ Yes ... I would need a justice of the peace... for tonight... In Virgin River... At 8 pm... Of course! I'll pay the charges and everything... Jack Sheridan...Thank you so much!... Have a nice day!
He went back to behind the counter.
Hope came in.
She had a good day. Wearing a burgundy vest and a striped long sleeve. Her face was rosy. And she was panting.. Jack noticed something he had never seen before. Hope was wearing running shoes... The man's jaw sagged.
+ Hope! Weren't you just running?
+ I was! You can believe it! And I loved it madly. I already understand why Mel likes to do this…
+ I'm glad you enjoyed it. Be healthier! Good decision. – he said.
+ Can I get a water, please?
+ Sure you can… - and smiled at Hope.
The restaurant was almost empty. Zero gossip nests. Jack was determined. Now he asks.
+ Uhmm. Hope…. Can… Can I ask you something? – started to scratch his chin. It was hairy.
+ Of course? Something happened? – she became nervous.
+ Yes n no… - and there it was… a lovely grin… You know… I asked Mel something…
+ Oh come on Jack! I do not care about your sexual life… to much emotion for me… - teasing him.
+ I know. But.! I asked her something else. Something bigger. More important…. - He was stirring in the air with his hands.
+ You did that? – shouted.
+ Be quiet! – instructed her.
+ No way! Jack Sheridan, the heartthrob of this area. The lonely wolf. "I don't settle down" man. - and she was using air quotes.
+ Well… The lone wolf is no longer lonely. He found the perfect female… - smiled under his breath…
Turned to Hope.
+ So. What are you doing at… maybe 8 pm? Have any plan?
+ Why?
+ Because….. we're going to have the wedding today ... and it would be weird if my witness wasn't present. – and looked into his eyes with a heart-warming smile.
+ You mean? You… want me?
+ I do! I really do! – walked toward her…
+ Jack… I…. I don't know what to say… - and a tear appeared in her eye.
+ Say you are free for it. – and he hugged the old lady.
AT THE CLINIC
+ Good morning little lady! – said Doc.
+ Good morning! You have a good day, don't you? – she noticed.
+ You can say that…
+ Good news? – asked Mel.
+ We're finally here... Hope took somebody's. Especially ours. She started to run... And she loves it! – he seemed very satisfied.
+ So, I will have a running buddy, huh.
+ I hope so! – and Doc showed his charming smile.
Just a few patients. Broken arm. Sprained ankle. Easy day.
LUNCH TIME
Mel sighed. She sat down at the table in front of Doc.
+ I need to ask something…
+ Money? Spare time? Drugs? – chuckled.
+ No! – she snorted… Uhmm.
+ Wait a minute Missy! Doesn't your finger hurt? That beauty must be heavy.
The man placed his chin into his palms and begun to stare at the woman.
+ Oh… yes… She blushed very much… Speaking of this (and touched her ring)... exactly this is what I wanted to talk about you. You know, when I moved here, I didn't think we were going to be friends. Not at all. But I didn't think love would find me again and here... so ... Would you be my wedding witness?
Doc got emotional. He really loved this girl.
+ It would be an honor for me, young lady! – and hugged her with a big, warm father-like hug…
+ By the way? Are you free at 8pm? – asked with a grin on her face.
+ Tonight? No planning? No guests? – he was surprised.
+ Yeah! No fuss about it.
+ Nurse Hollywood wants a simple wedding – he laughed softly.
+ No Nurse Hollywood! Nurse Virgin River! – and she did a "NO" girly gesture.
ON THE PIER
It was the same place where Mel, baby Chloe and Jack had a picnic some months ago.
Now it was decorated with lights. Twinkle lights were wrapped around the pier. It was wonderful... There was no music. Mel wanted to hear the everyday noises. Silence and nature. This place symbolized all that Jack meant for her. Peace and happiness. The bride wore a simple white dress. A Lydia maxi dress. Earrings and ballerina shoes. She was cold but not bothered. Jack wore a white shirt with a black vest. He pulled his sleeve up to his elbow. His pants were black jeans. Charming and elegant in his own way. Full of Jack.
+ You are the most beautiful woman I ever met! – he whispered. I love you! – lip-synced. And she did the same.
Time has come for their vows.
+ Please Melinda, tell after me! said the registrar…
"Jack, I now take you to be my wedded husband, to live together after God's ordinance in the holy relationship of marriage. I promise to love and comfort you, honor and keep you, and forsaking all others, I will be yours alone as long as we both shall live." – said Mel.
+ Thank you!
+ Please Jack, tell after me!
"Melinda, I now take you to be my wedded husband, to live together after God's ordinance in the holy relationship of marriage. I promise to love and comfort you, honor and keep you, and forsaking all others, I will be yours alone as long as we both shall live." – said Jack.
They said no vow of their own there. It was too personal. They decided to tell each other at home.
+ Now Jack! You can kiss your wife!
Applause. Whistling. Congrats… full of emotions… full of love… full of happiness and passion.
A few minutes later.
+ Witnesses! Please come and sign the papers.
And they did.
+ Just married! It's your turn…
Jack was the first… then Mel followed him.
Mel hesitated. Jack felt sad at that moment. "She doesn't want my name. She wants to keep Mark's name." - thought in his mind. Suddenly everything froze… Maybe it's not the reality? Is this all just a dream? But she loves him... then why is she hesitating? He got nervous…
+ Uhmm. Jack!
Oh no… he thought….
+ How do you write your family name? With an A or an E in the end? – and her smile was lovely!
+ With and A. – and he smiled at her back. Jack felt warm. He was filled with happiness. He was the happiest man in the world.
+ Say hello to Sheridans. – shouted Hope!... Come! Come! – and she pulled out her polaroid camera…
AT THE CABIN
They put on a guitar album. Romantic melodies. Slow dance. Snuggling together…
+ You know! I haven't told you my vow… - he said naughty.
+ Really? – she asked with a flirty smile.
+ Aham. – he nodded.
He pulled her hand to his heart… to feel his heartbeats… Looked into her beautiful eyes.
+ I have told so many times that I love you. This cannot be forgotten... I don't even want to prove - I love you – sighed. There was your past… I know you've been through a lot. But… now there is your present. Of which I am a part... I stand by you in everything. – whispered. I want to be your partner. Your support... – short break… And there will be your future. I want to be a part of it. I want more than anything else in the world. - looked into her eye then to the other… I am ready to give you everything you desire. – licked his lower lip. I'll be there if you're sad. I'll be there if you're happy. I'll be there if you crave a hug. – smiled. I'll be there when you wake up in the morning and thirsty for coffee... – giggled. I will be there in your heart if you need solitude. I bind my soul, my heart and my body to you... – touched her forehead with his. Forever!
+ Oh… Jeeez. How I gonna top this?... – she snickered with tears.
Jack was staring at her. His eyes became red due to tears. Curved his lips up. He pursed his lips.
+ I believed in miracles... I believed in fate... And it was gone...for a while. I thought my life would remain bleak forever... - choked up. Now I believe in miracles again. I believe in fate. I believe I had to come here! Life had something more for me... Rebirth. - sighed. If you hadn't been by my side, I would have collapsed. I feel like I'm alive. I'm happy and I thank you for that. You're the reason I want to get up in the morning… and coffee of course. – both laughed... To see your smile, your face. - chuckled. To feel your scent, the warmth of your body... - looked deeply in his eyes and smiled with tears... I know my destiny is... is YOU... and every day I will prove that I am worthy for your love... I want to live my life with you. Here. This is my home, our home. Because of you... If you're not next to me, I'm lost. I feel emptiness... I'm ready to give you what you need, what you wish. Maybe a massage - smiled with a big smile... hugs... mischief - giggled... Love! Because I found love in YOU. Eternal love. I will love you for ever and ever.
Jack suddenly kissed her. It was strong, passionate, intense. Full of tears, full of love, full of warmth. Like the "KISS".
The fire was burning, and Jack released the woman's belt. Then unzipped her dress. Kissed her shoulder with gentle, velvety movements. And her neck. And her back. Mel slowly unbuttoned the man's vest, then his shirt. Pushed the material softly down his back. Finally started to stoke it. Every scar, every wound. The husband touched his wife's skin sensually. It was soft and warm. He took off her tights with slothful movements. After that he carefully turned off her bra's clasp and took the woman in his arms. A perfect wedding night…
The music fell silent and the couple fell asleep too.
TOMORROW
The morning was cool. Mel got up sooner. He sat out on the porch with a blanket and scanned the landscape.
Jack woke up and made coffee. He stepped out the door.
Gave the coffee to Mel.
+ Good morning... wife. - and it was a joyful smile on his happy cheeks.